Compare Microsoft Defender and Bitdefender

On the other hand, Bitdefender is a top security program available for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. Which one should you choose? Should you use the free option? Should you continue to buy Bitdefender to protect your device? This article will present the differences between these two antivirus software to help you make an informed decision.

Basic protective measures

Note that Microsoft Defender is part of Windows Security. While features like Windows Hello, Dynamic Lock, and Microsoft account protection options are available, Microsoft Defender is unique to Microsoft's Windows operating system. Any anti-virus protection program cannot replace it.

Therefore, the article will focus on protection against threats and other security/privacy features.

Microsoft Defender (or Windows Defender) has a simpler feature set and sticks to the essentials.

Compare Microsoft Defender and Bitdefender Picture 1

The ability to monitor connections, create security rules, and manage incoming/outgoing connections is available using the Windows Defender Firewall program. For viruses and other threats, you can expect real-time protection and ransomware.

In addition, you also have various scanning options to ensure that there are no malicious files in the storage drive. The offline scanning option can be an effective way to find malicious files without interruption.

Bitdefender gives you the same feature set including real-time protection, firewall management, and ransomware protection.

Compare Microsoft Defender and Bitdefender Picture 2

Bitdefender goes one step further by providing you with advanced controls for scanning, antivirus protection, plus some extras like Rescue Environment, Early Boot Scan and more.

You may find Microsoft Defender more convenient if you don't need advanced control features.

Advanced protection features

Microsoft Defender may lack advanced security measures. By default, Microsoft Defender sends any suspicious files as a sample for inspection. You'll find Tamper Protection a useful feature that doesn't allow apps to change basic Windows Security settings. It still works even if you use a third-party antivirus program like Bitdefender.

What's more, you get cloud protection that automatically keeps your antivirus ready for the latest threats.

Compare Microsoft Defender and Bitdefender Picture 3

When it comes to online security, Microsoft Defender offers renowned protection. The program checks for unrecognized files and applications, and the SmartScreen feature aims to protect the device from harmful websites and downloads.

You can also choose to block unwanted programs and download them directly if application blocking is enabled.

Switching to Bitdefender, you get a bunch of features like Advanced Threat Defense, vulnerability scanner, Antispam and Anti-Theft.

Advanced Threat Defense is tailored to combat unknown threats and zero-day attacks. You can use a vulnerability scanner to find potential vulnerabilities in your security measures.

It's also important to note that some of these advanced protections may affect some games (especially if it's a new game). So you might want to turn it off and try again if one of the games doesn't work.

Compare Microsoft Defender and Bitdefender Picture 4

Also, Antispam (with Outlook and Thunderbird support) and Anti-Theft could prove to be the top tier, if you need these on your device. You also get SafePay that opens a separate browser for any activity that requires total security, plus a VPN.

Windows Defender also provides a similar feature to Microsoft Defender Application Guard that you must install separately. It will use Microsoft's Edge browser to launch an isolated environment.

Overall, Microsoft Defender will not let you down with its protection. However, you get more advanced features when it comes to Bitdefender. Advanced features create enhanced security if you ask for it.

Protect privacy

Windows isn't particularly well known for its privacy-conscious options. So it's no surprise that you don't get any special privacy-focused features with Microsoft Defender.

With Bitdefender, you get additional security options, including a VPN, anti-tracking, parental controls, webcam and audio protection, and a password manager. This is useful if you prefer to use a single product or service instead of choosing multiple options.

Compare Microsoft Defender and Bitdefender Picture 5

Note that tracking protection doesn't work with all browsers, but it's recommended if you have Mozilla Firefox or Google Chrome.

User interface

The user interface is the least relevant issue with anti-virus solutions, but still worth looking into.

Compare Microsoft Defender and Bitdefender Picture 6

While Bitdefender offers intuitive controls, it can be overwhelming with the number of options offered. Meanwhile, Microsoft Defender blends in with the Windows experience and offers a simple user interface without many options.

Plus, both options support light and dark modes.

Pricing, Platform Support, and Extra Features

Whether you pay for anti-virus software or use free software, it's entirely your choice.

Note that Bitdefender offers many different versions. You can choose to use the free version or upgrade to one of the premium versions. The features available to you will depend on the version you purchase.

If you choose the Bitdefender Premium or Total Security version, you will access the system optimizer and a number of other features. Microsoft Defender does not offer any such option, even for business users.

There's no doubt that Microsoft Defender is only available for Windows 10 and 11. However, you can choose to use Bitdefender on your Mac, iPhone, or Android phone.

Platform support won't be an issue since we're just focusing on Windows here. However, the bundle option also provides licenses for other devices. That might be a better solution.

Microsoft Defender vs Bitdefender: Which is better?

Bitdefender is a paid antivirus with some advanced features and additional privacy protections. It offers a free version, but may not be viable in the long run.

If Bitdefender seems a bit overkill to you, Microsoft Defender offers you ample protection as a free alternative.

In any case, you should always be proactive about what you do and download on your computer to stay safe.

Lesley Montoya

Update 09 December 2021